The Lawyo Podcast

Termination of employment can be a complex and emotional process, but understanding the laws can make it clearer for both employees and employers. In this episode, we unpack the key rules around termination under Ontario's Employment Standards Act (ESA), including notice periods, severance pay, and just cause dismissals.

We’ll also cover common misconceptions, employee entitlements, and employer obligations, as well as steps to take if you believe your termination was unfair. Whether you’re navigating a termination or just want to be informed, this episode provides practical insights into the legal framework of ending employment in Ontario.

Ontario’s laws surrounding hours of work can be confusing for both employees and employers. In this episode, we break down the Employment Standards Act (ESA) rules governing work hours, including maximum daily and weekly limits, rest periods, and meal breaks.

We’ll also dive into topics like overtime pay, averaging agreements, and exemptions to the standard rules. Whether you’re an employee trying to understand your rights or an employer aiming to stay compliant, this episode provides a clear and comprehensive guide to Ontario’s “hours of work” laws.

Minimum wage laws affect millions of workers and employers across Ontario, but how well do you really understand them? In this episode, we take a deep dive into Ontario’s minimum wage regulations, including current rates, who they apply to, and exceptions to the rules.

We’ll also discuss how these laws impact part-time workers, students, and employees in specific industries, as well as what to do if your rights are being violated. Whether you’re an employee or an employer, this episode will help you navigate minimum wage laws with confidence and clarity.

Workplace safety is a fundamental right, and Ontario's Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) sets the standards to ensure that. In this episode, we break down the key provisions of the OHSA, highlighting the rights and responsibilities of employers, employees, and supervisors when it comes to creating a safe work environment.

We’ll cover topics like hazard prevention, reporting unsafe conditions, and understanding your rights to refuse unsafe work. Whether you’re an employee seeking to understand your protections or an employer looking to comply with the law, this episode provides valuable insights to navigate workplace safety in Ontario.

You’ve won your case—now what? In the final part of our Small Claims Court series, we tackle what happens after you’ve received a judgment in your favor. This episode explores the steps to enforce a judgment and collect what you’re owed, including garnishing wages, seizing assets, and filing a writ of seizure and sale.

We’ll also discuss timelines, costs, and what to do if the losing party doesn’t cooperate. Whether you’re celebrating a win or preparing for the next phase, this episode will guide you through the post-judgment process with clarity and confidence.

In part two of our Small Claims Court series, we focus on how to prepare for your day in court. From gathering evidence to understanding legal procedures, this episode will help you get organized and build a strong case.

We’ll discuss how to draft a clear and persuasive argument, what documents and witnesses you may need, and tips for staying calm and confident in the courtroom. Whether you’re a plaintiff or a defendant, this episode provides practical advice to ensure you’re ready to present your case effectively.

Welcome to part one of our three-part series on navigating Small Claims Court in Ontario. In this episode, we lay the foundation by explaining what Small Claims Court is, what types of cases can be filed, and how the process works.

We’ll guide you through the first steps, including determining if your case is eligible, how to file a claim, and the fees involved. Whether you’re seeking to recover money owed or resolve a dispute, this episode will help you start your journey with confidence. Don’t miss this practical and informative series designed to make Small Claims Court easier to understand for everyday Canadians.

What do you do when a tenant moves out but leaves belongings behind? In this episode, we unpack the rules and responsibilities landlords in Ontario must follow when dealing with abandoned property.

We cover the legal steps under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), including how to properly notify the tenant, store items, and determine whether you can sell, donate, or dispose of the belongings. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and protect yourself from liability while handling these tricky situations. This is essential listening for landlords looking to stay on the right side of the law.

What happens when a tenant moves out but leaves behind unpaid rent or damages? In this episode, we explore the steps landlords can take to collect money owed by a former tenant in Ontario. From filing a claim with the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) to pursuing legal action in Small Claims Court, we break down the options available to recover your losses.

We’ll discuss important timelines, required evidence, and practical tips to improve your chances of success. Whether you’re a landlord dealing with a difficult situation or simply want to understand your rights, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating these challenges.

Ending a tenancy in Ontario can be a complex and highly regulated process. In this episode, we break down the legal framework that landlords must follow to end a tenancy, including the specific notices required, valid reasons for termination under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), and the role of the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

Whether you're a landlord looking to understand your rights or a tenant who wants to be informed, this episode covers everything from eviction notices to navigating disputes at the LTB. Join us as we simplify the process and provide practical tips to help you handle tenancy issues the right way.